I was traveling every few months throughout Europe and the Middle East. Usually only had my carry on bag but I always had my hygeine equipment, 1 change of clothes, and a set of hiking boots to get into once I landed. Always had two different credit cards in case one got locked but also carried $2-3k in small bills and big. You can buy your way out of a lot in some of those third world holes and we did a lot. Have enough to buy your way to another secure country, then you get use your Visa to get a flight and boogie!